lake eyre tours from coober pedy

Lake Eyre 4wd and Outback Tours

Experience Lake Eyre and Outback South Australia on our 4 Day Lake Eyre 4WD Tours

Lake Eyre is the largest salt lake in the Southern Hemisphere, situated half way along the Oodnadatta Track in Outback South Australia.

Our Lake Eyre 4WD Tours are travelling via Coober Pedy, William Creek and Marree. Overnight stays include undergound accommodation in Coober Pedy, William Creek and Leigh Creek Outback Resort.

Included Lake Eyre and Painted Hills Scenic Flight from William Creek, the closest airfield to the lake. Enjoy your 2 hour flight with professional commentary. Window seat guaranteed.

Enjoy the comfort of our Toyota Landcruiser 4WD  with air-conditioning and on-board fridge for cool drinks. Our Lake Eyre 4WD Tours are fully accommodated.

Walk on the salt pans  of South Lake Eyre, fly over North Lake Eyre, see the endless horizon at Lake Hart, discover the pink salt lake of Lochiel and explore the Painted Hills on a spectacular ground tour – the ultimate salt lake experience from Adelaide.

Join this small group tour  from and travel to Lake Eyre and Outback Australia.

Today we will pick you up from your Adelaide city hotel and travel along the Explorer Highway to Coober Pedy. Our journey takes us through the towns of Port Wakefield and Port Augusta. A stop at Lochiel’s pink salt lake can not be missed. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Woomera and walk among the rockets and planes. Lake Hart and Glendambo are our final stops on route to Coober Pedy. Coober Pedy was once just a rocky, dusty desert plain and is now the opal mining capital of the world. We will check into our underground accommodation and join back for a delicious dinner. (Day 1 Lunch, Dinner, The Lookout Cave Coober Pedy overnight)

Coober Pedy to William Creek

Coober Pedy is a very bizarre town and we start the day with an opal mine tour and learn about this beautiful gem stone. Look at some spectacular examples before our drive to the colourful Breakaways. After lunch we travel to South Australia’s smallest town William Creek. We arrive mid afternoon with plenty of time to check out this remote and unique area. Relax and unwind in your en-suited cabin or join the locals for an ice cold beer before our dinner. (Day 2 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, William Creek En-suited Cabins overnight)

Lake Eyre and the Painted Hills Scenic Flight with remote Landing, Walk on South Lake Eyre

This morning we take our stunning scenic flight over Lake Eyre. Our special two hour flight will take you over Lake Eyre and the Painted Hills. These must-see sandstone hills are set in the outback of South Australia and can only be reached by air. We have permission to land and explore this very unique and spectacular landmark on the ground. After an unforgettable early morning flight we drive along the Oodnadatta Track to South Lake Eyre. Walk to the edge of the lake or enjoy the views from the information bay. Be amazed by the endless horizon and witness the vast inland, loneliness and incredible nature.

Then it is time to make our way to Marree. Learn about Sir Sidney Kidman and the history of the many displays here. Not too many people are listed as one of their town’s visitor attractions. But then Talc Alf is a one off, a quirky and engaging outback character who has achieved near icon status along the Oodnadatta Track. Over the past 40 years he has created an outside gallery in Lyndhurst and we will view some of Alf’s unique talc carvings. Our final stretch take us to Leigh Creek for a comfortable overnight stay. (Day 3 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Leigh Creek Outback Resort overnight)

Travel through Country Towns and Clare Valley back to Adelaide

Lake Eyre 4WD Tours Highlights & Inclusions

• Pickup from Adelaide City Hotel 6.30 am
• All Meals from Morning Tea Day 1- Lunch Day 4
• Drinking Water, Snacks and Fruit
• Toyota Landcruiser 4WD Vehicle
• All Ensuited Accommodation Double/Twin Share
• 1x Night Underground Motel in Coober Pedy
• 1x Night Ensuited Cabin at William Creek
• 1x Night Leigh Creek Outback Resort
• Lochiel and Loch Eel
• Woomera Rocket Range
• Lake Hart Lookout

• Coober Pedy
• Opal Mine Tour
• Underground Church
• William Creek
• 2 hour Lake Eyre and Painted Hills Scenic Flight
• Painted Hills Landing and Ground Tour
• South Lake Eyre Walk
• Marree Sightseeing
• Talc Alf Carvings
• Fully Guided Activities
• Drop Off Adelaide City Hotel or Adelaide Airport

How can we thank you enough, everything was so professionally handled from booking to pick up… and then the tour… every day a new high a new surprise, a new treat. What a bunch of experiences we have had, totally memorable. These memories will keep us hankering for another trip with you. Thank you Lee.

Tripadvisor

We really enjoyed our trip to Lake Eyre with you -a real experience, lovely people, good cooking – let alone the excellent driving and outstanding tour guiding. As promised I will be wearing your company T shirt throughout the country music festival in Tamworth in January. Kind regards Bernie and Wendy.

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Lake Eyre 4WD Tours

Guaranteed Departure with 2 passengers – Maximum Group Size is 5.

18th March – Fully Booked 22nd April – Fully Booked 17th May – Seats Available 1st June – Seats Available

More Departures are available All Year – Get in Contact

4 Day Tour – $3695 per person

Fully Inclusive of All Meals, All Ensuited Accommodation, 2 hour Scenic Flight over Lake Eyre and the Painted Hills with Remote Landing

Great Lake Eyre Tour Options from

3 to 5 Day Tours available 

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South Australia's guide to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

31 MAY 2022

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Welcome to South Australia’s Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre: a glistening salt pan spanning hundreds of kilometres, transformed by desert downpours into a thriving oasis.

Stretching a mind-boggling 144 kilometres by 77 kilometres, South Australia’s Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre in the Flinders Ranges and Outback , truly is a natural wonder. Its seemingly-endless expanse of shimmering salt crystals lure travellers year-round, but the real magic happens when the lake is flooded by desert rain. Once every few years, networks of channels, streams and floodplains converge in Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park, bringing with them an abundance of wildlife, stunning natural beauty and dreamlike pink and orange hues. 

To discover Lake Eyre in all it's glory, check out our guide detailing how and when to visit, how best to explore and where to stay during your time in the outback. 

For more information and to check current conditions, see the  Bureau of Meteorology website .

1. HOW TO GET THERE AND HOW TO SEE IT

Fly or drive.

The best way to get to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is by plane. Fly from Adelaide to South Australia's underground opal town, Coober Pedy , spend a couple of days exploring, then hit the skies for a tour over Lake Eyre with  Wrightsair. If you're an avid four-wheel-driver, fly from Adelaide  to  Coober Pedy , hire a car and follow the outback loop or simply experience the real outback with a 4WD drive tour.  

Before driving, please keep in mind that Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is one of the most remote places in Australia. See our  Flinders Ranges and Outback driving safety tips  and make sure you prepare.

JOIN A TOUR

One of the most popular (not to mention jaw-dropping) ways to experience this natural wonder is on a Lake Eyre Tour. Choose from a range of specialised tour guides such as  Andamooka observatory experiences or experience an aboriginal cultural tours at Wilpena Pound . 

2. VISITING LAKE EYRE

Located 647 kilometres north-east of Adelaide , Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is Australia’s biggest salt lake and was formed approximately 200 million years ago and is the lowest point below sea level on the Australian continent.

When the lake’s water level is low, its glittering crystalised surface stretches as far as the eye can see. When it floods, waterbirds descend in their thousands, fish converge in channels and wildflowers blanket floodplains.

As water begins to evaporate, the lake takes-on a spectacular pink hue caused by a pigment found within a specific type of salt-loving algae.

3. WHEN TO VISIT

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is a showstopper year-round, but the best time to visit is when Outback rains have flooded it with water.  

Approximately, a small one-and-a-half metre flood occurs every three years and a large four metre flood occurs every ten years, usually in winter. The lake only fills entirely three times every 160 years.

Lake Eyre’s weather is typical of an  Outback Australian  environment with very hot summers reaching 40 plus degrees (Celsius) during the day and winter temperatures dropping to zero degrees (Celsius) at night.

During summer, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is extremely dry, with nearby sand dunes and mesas rising from salty claypans and tabelands. In winter, seasonal changes bring the region to life with abundant wildlife and flora.

Before embarking on visit to see Lake Eyre, make sure you research Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre's current water levelor contact a Lake Eyre Tour operator for more information.

4. LAKE EYRE ACCOMMODATION

The  Oodnadatta Track  is dotted with some of Australia’s most loved Outback hotels and pubs, which make a perfect resting spots when driving to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre. Top picks include the iconic  Marree Hotel  and  William Creek Hotel , where you can also join a scenic flight.

Another option is to recharge and refresh underground in Australia’s opal capital,  Coober Pedy , then take flight with a Lake Eyre tour for a scenic flight. 

Parachilna’s internationally-acclaimed  Prairie Hotel  is where the  Flinders Ranges meets the Outback . Sink your teeth into their famous feral feast, enjoy some local hospitality, then take-off with Wrightsair  for a day spent soaring above Lake Eyre.

CAMPGROUNDS

Lake Eyre is part of  Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park , which boasts multiple campgrounds. Halligan Bay Point Campground provides bush camping, while Muloorina Station has campgrounds with toilets and some facilities.

To camp in the park, you must have a Desert Parks Pass or a day entry permit. The Desert Parks Pass includes maps, information about the parks, Lake Eyre’s Aboriginal history and safety tips. Day entry permits can be  purchased online  or at William Creek and Marree.

5. WHERE TO VENTURE

William creek, outback.

South Australia’s William Creek is one of Australia’s most remote towns. Situated along the sprawling Oodnadatta Track, William Creek is an 11-hour drive from  Adelaide  or a two-hour drive from the Outback town of Coober Pedy. The  William Creek Hotel  is loved by travellers from all around the world with a front bar decorated by hundreds of notes, memorabilia and mementos.

THE ANNA CREEK PAINTED HILLS, OUTBACK

The  Anna Creek Painted Hills  are a spectacular outcrop of deep orange sun-baked mountains, emerging suddenly from a flat desert landscape. Part of the Breakaways, the Painted Hills are only accessible by plane. Board a  Wrightsair  plane from Coober Pedy or William Creek for a scenic flight. Wrightsair also give you the exclusive opportunity to land in the Painted Hills and explore the spectacular landscape by foot.

THE MARREE MAN, OUTBACK 

The mysterious Marree Man is a four kilometre-long carving etched deep into the red earth of Outback South Australia. After being discovered in 1998, still no one knows who created it or why.  Located 65 kilometres away from the town of Marree, you can see the man himself on a scenic flight from the historic  Marree Hotel  or with  Wrightsair .

COOBER PEDY

Journey to the underground town of  Coober Pedy  – Australia’s opal capital, boasting a sun-baked lunar landscape. Descend beneath the earth to discover a labyrinth of underground houses, hotels and even shops. Above-ground, watch Coober Pedy change colour as the sun drenches the land.

OUTBACK STATIONS

Outback stations have been a huge part of South Australia's history for more than 150 years. Today many properties in the  Flinders Ranges and Outback  combine traditional farm life with luxury accommodation, providing a unique experience for guests. Stay on a sheep or cattle station in shearers’ quarters, cook your own meals or join your hosts for dinner. Top picks include  Rawnsley Park Station , Alpana Station  and Beltana Station. For pure luxury, visit  Arkaba Conservancy : an indulgent retreat set on a 60,000-acre regenerated sheep station.

6. OUTBACK DRIVING

Ready to start planning your trip? As exhilarating as driving in the Outback is, you need to take precautions. Stay safe and prepare. Follow our guide for  Flinders Ranges and Outback driving safety tips  through some of the world's most exhilarating 4WD-ing country.

SEE MORE OF OUTBACK SOUTH AUSTRALIA...

Navigating through the Flinders Ranges and Outback , you'll find spectacular, ancient landscapes, abundant wildlife and some of Australia’s richest Aboriginal cultural experiences. Discover our guide to Coober Pedy , your gateway to Lake Eyre.

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• Flinders & North SA

Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges 7-day Small Group Tour

Description

Other services, outback experience - from adelaide to coober pedy, lake eyre, flinders ranges.

This is an exciting 7-day small group Lake Eyre Tour from Adelaide to the famous South Australian Flinders Ranges, and on to Coober Pedy, the world's best opal centre.

Lake Eyre, located 700km north of Adelaide, is the largest salt lake in the Southern Hemisphere — so large that it crosses the borders of three states. It is the lowest natural point in Australia (15m below sea level), and is also, on the rare occasions that it fills, the largest lake in Australia at 9500 m2.

Come and see this beautiful outback marvel in the comfort of a modern 4WD vehicle!

Tour highlights:

• Historic Coastal towns
• Pt Augusta Wadlata Outback Centre
• Woomera Rocket Range
• Coober Pedy mine and town tour
• Sunset at The Breakaways
• Remote William Creek pub
• The Dingo Fence
• The Oodnadatta Track
• Maree Old Mail Run, relics
• Flinders Ranges National Park
• Wilpena Pound
• Brachina Gorge Ediacaran fossils
• Clare Valley wine region

Included in the small group tour:

• 6 nights in 3*- 4* accommodation with breakfasts (quoted price standard rooms; superior rooms available (5495 AUD p.p or 5595 AUD single), includes underground at Coober Pedy)
• 5 x dinners
• 4 x lunches
• Fully escorted

Optional extras 2024: (prices are per person)

Day 4 from William Creek

• 1 hour lake Eyre flight 
• 2 hour lake Eyre + Painted Hills flight including landing and walking in the Painted Hills (recommended)

Day 5 & 6 from Arkaroola

• 35 minute flight over Arkaroola 
• 45 minute flight over Lake Frome 
• 75 minute flight over Arkaroola & Lake Frome 
• 2 hour flight Two Lakes 2 Deserts 
• 4 hour flight over Lake Eyre 
• 4 hour 4WD Ridge Top tour to Mount Sillers Lookout 
• Explore the Cosmos night sky observation 

Day 7 from Wilpena Pound

• 30 minute flight over Wilpena Pound and the Flinders Ranges 
• 1 hour flight over Wilpena Pound and the Flinders Ranges 
• Optional extras are on request 
• All flights need minimum 2 persons 
• Advertised itineraries and vehicles may change due to circumstances beyond our control

Slow Tours offers a number of other Small Group Tours in the Australia Pacific region

Pick up from Adelaide, Follow the Gulf St Vincent and Spencer Gulf, stopping at historical coastal towns. Learn our rich maritime history maybe take a walk down the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere at Port Germain. This was once a bustling port for sail ships & seafarers.

During the safari your Tour Guide will introduce you to a remarkable and resilient history of both Aboriginal and white settlement in S.A. See the Southern Flinders Ranges, 600 million year old mountain peaks with spectacular views over this incredible landscape. Spend the afternoon strolling around the award winning Wadlata Outback Centre at Pt Augusta. Overnight: Port Augusta Motel

Travel up the Explorer Highway to Woomera visiting the old rocket range and Military Base. As we head further North, East of the A.P.Y. Aboriginal lands take a break at the Lake Gairdner lookout to see this huge expanse of salt lakes.

Onto Coober Pedy the largest opal mining field in the world. Heading into town we will pass the extensive mining operations that help make this place so unique. Coober Pedy is a town where people live underground to escape the harsh desert conditions. Watch a magical sunset over the desert at KankuBreakaways Conservation Park before following the Dingo Fence back to Coober Pedy. Overnight: Coober Pedy

Spend a leisurely morning visiting underground churches, opal shops and displays. Learn about the area on a guided mine tour to see how these hardy folks live.

After lunch we depart Coober Pedy crossing the famous dingo fence (the longest man made structure in the world) this helps to keep the wild dogs up north away from the sheep stations further down.

Travel along the red sand hill tracks through Anna Creek station to William Creek. This remote town stands out like an oasis in the desert, halfway between Adelaide to Alice Springs. Enjoy an ice cold beer at the bar of this famous Outback Pub that has a rich history of stockman, camels and life in the bush. Overnight: William Creek Cabin. Optional extra: Lake Eyre & Painted Desert Scenic Flights

Continue our epic journey down the famous Oodnadatta Track, following the historic route of the Cameleers. This area has a rich history of Aboriginal culture and pioneering settlements. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the edge of Lake Eyre South National Park. This is where Sir Donald Campbell broke the land speed record in 1964 in the Blue Bird. Visit thermal springs that have been the life blood of this arid land for centuries.

Arriving at Maree late afternoon, check out the old Afghan mosque and relics of our pioneering days. This historic town is where Outback legend Tom Kruse left on his epic mail run deliveries to Birdsville and beyond. Overnight: Maree Cabins

Venturing further east into the remote outback of Australia, we will cross ancient creek beds that meander out to Lake Frome. Witness a stunning change in the landscape from spectacular deserts to the ancient mountains of the Gammon Range.

Arriving at the Arkaroola Village around lunch time you will have time to relax and take in this world renowned area of stunning beauty. Alternatively take the exhilarating 4wd ridge top tour to the top of Mt Siller or maybe a scenic flight over this breathtaking land. Optional extra: The Famous Arkaroola 4wd Ridge Top Tour. Optional extra: Flights over the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Optional extra: Night sky observatory Overnight: Arkaroola Wilderness Lodge

This morning we travel south along the top of Lake Frome, which can been seen in the distance from vantage points where early explorers once stood. See the Red Sandhill country that holds thousands of years of sacred beliefs to the Adnyamathanha aboriginal people.

Have lunch at the old copper mining town of Blinman, the highest town is SA. Our local guide will drive you on a wonderful journey through the secluded and ever-changing creek beds of Brachina Gorge, known as The Corridors Through Time. This is an area alive with wildlife and boasts a remarkable geological history including Ediacaran fossils. World-renowned South Australian painter, Sir Hans Heysen, was inspired by this country and painted many of his landscapes here.

Take that special photograph or just enjoy some of the most spectacular outback scenery there is. As the sun becomes low in the sky we will follow the road through a landscape of absolute beauty. Wildlife including Kangaroos, Emus and Wedge-tailed Eagles are prolific in this rugged terrain and are usually spotted in the late afternoon. Overnight: Wilpena Pound Resort, Rawnsley Park Station or Quorn Motel (depending on availability)

Enjoy an early morning walk, breathe in the fresh air while listening to the unique sounds of the Australian Bush. Spend a relaxing morning travelling back to Adelaide along the eastern side of the magnificent Flinders Ranges with its mighty red gum forests. The land will change into lush expanses of natural rural beauty as we head south. Enjoy a break in the world-famous Clare Valley wine region.

No doubt you will leave with life-long memories to share with family and friends about your journey to the Flinders Ranges & Outback Australia!

End of tour.

We had the best time – saw so much majestic country, had such a fantastic guide in Steve and really enjoyed being with the rest of the group. It was a sensational tour, so much to appreciate. We just need a little help to hope there will be a future for all creatures, them and us. And it seemed like this could be a tour that offered a glimpse into a future, along with its gaze into an amazing past. - July 2022

Just to let you know how much we enjoyed the Coober Pedy/Lake Eyre tour. We were blessed with almost perfect weather, a lovely group of fellow travellers (just 9 of us) and a wonderful tour guide in Steve. The experiences we had have made it a trip of a lifetime so I wanted to thank you for all your help in organising it. We will certainly recommend you to anyone we can. - September 2022

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Lake Eyre Tours

Lake eyre tours: there’s so many, how can you choose the right one.

Travelling down to Lake Eyre over Easter this year, we were stunned at the number of Lake Eyre Tours that were available. (We were also absolutely stunned by the number of tourists at William Creek, but that’s another story!)

People were coming in via bus, small charter plane, via 4WD, and even as part of luxury tours with 5 star meals. Although most of the city slickers weren’t opting for the 5 million star accommodation like we did (that’s camping in a swag!).

There’s a huge range of choices! If you’re thinking about going, now (2011) is the time to do it whilst the lake is nearly full.

People often ask us for recommendations about Lake Eyre tours and Lake Eyre accommodation , as well as about camping and road conditions.

We’re advocates of slow travel in the outback with your own car/4WD, and as we don’t know everyone’s personal tastes, it’s sometimes hard for us to recommend one tour over another.

After all, in the 20 years we’ve lived here, we’ve driven to most off-the-beaten-track places in our own vehicles and camped.

However, as Gary has very close dealings with the tourism industry and sits on a couple of important outback tourism boards, we do get to know a lot about tours and tour operators.

As a ranger, he also deals with tour operators firsthand ­ approving their permits and making sure they do the right things in national parks!

No, we don’t know everything -and we don’t pretend to- but we can give you a few pointers!

There are two popular options here that we can suggest . As we’ve said above, this isn’t meant to be the last word on Lake Eyre tourism , just our suggestions.

Be warned, no Lake Eyre Tour is cheap! Most start at around $1500 AUD and go upwards.

The first option is a Lake Eyre air tour . This is where you get on a flight in a capital city, and spend 3, 4, or even 5 days flying to some pretty amazing places around the outback.

Some tours stay in simple outback ‘donga’ style accommodation or outback pubs, and offer ‘luxury’ inclusions like great food and wine.

Other tours give you the ultimate outback experience: camping in a swag under the stars.

Watch this short clip to see what a tour to Lake Eyre is really like.

Some Lake Eyre air tours give you an exclusive stop-over and accommodation on an outback cattle station where the public isn’t always allowed.

If you’re looking for the tour of a lifetime, and live in Sydney or Melbourne (or Adelaide or Brisbane), then you could take an air tour. You don’t have to worry about off road driving, your food and accommodation is taken care of, and you can fly in and out in as little as 2 days.

The kind of tour I’d take would:

• have a maximum of 6 people
• visit places that the public don’t get to
• focus on nature, Aboriginal culture and European history
• be slow paced, so you get to look around, do some walking, photography and birdwatching
• offer camping rather than just donga or pub accommodation

In other words, I’m looking for something that’s not really like a tour, but more like my own independent style of travel.

Looking around at the options, I haven’t really found anything that’s like this! Most of the Lake Eyre air tours I’ve seen fly Sydney-Broken Hill-Marree-William Creek and back again.

They don’t offer the option of camping at all, and I’m not really certain how much time you’d spend actually at the Lake itself (although all of them fly over the Lake).

So it’s really hard for me to recommend any one tour company here!

Combined Air/4WD Tours of Lake Eyre

My second option would be to join a combined air/4WD tour.

Now this is much more my style! These tours generally start in the capital cities and fly you to either Marree or Coober Pedy. You then transfer into a 4WD bus or vehicle, and off you go.

Lots of these tours combine a short flight over Lake Eyre with side trips that focus on history, visits to Aboriginal communities, walking and birdwatching opportunities. And you get to camp, with all meals included.

No doubt, you’ll have to help out a bit on some of these tours with cleaning up or collecting firewood, but for the camaraderie of drinking billy tea around the campfire, what’s a few dishes?

If I had to recommend any of these tours, I’d recommend Spirit Safaris.

They specialise in culture and history, and have access to places like Kalamurina Station , which is a private conservation reserve run by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy .

This short clip was taken in November 2011. It shows what you’ll see on a Lake Eyre tour with Spirit Safaris:

How awesome is this clip? Can you see why I recommend Spirit Safaris so highly?

What’s more, they take their time, and don’t cram too much sightseing and too many destinations all in one short space.

Choosing The Best Lake Eyre Tour

I know we’ve said it elsewhere on our site: one of the biggest mistakes people make when visiting the outback is trying to see everything all at once in three days! This is one way to guarantee the worst possible experience of the outback that you could imagine!

The same needs to be said for Lake Eyre Tours. Choose your tour wisely. Whilst a flight over the Lake to take a few snaps or video might be your ultimate aim, ask yourself: is that the experience you really want?

Could you ever say that you’d camped alongside the Lake, walked on it, smelled it (it has a unique smell!), or seen the incredible spectacle of the sun set, where sky and lake merge and appear to go on forever?

Obviously not. In our opinion, a quick fly-in-fly-out tour isn’t the best way to actually see the Lake or get a real appreciation of it.

Our other advice is to look for something different. Look for a small, family-run operation which will take you to places off the beaten track, and let you sit down and chat with outback locals, rather than just do the Marree-Coober Pedy-William Creek loop.

Remember, this is the trip of a lifetime, so you might as well make it an experience that gives you quality time and lets you get a feel for Lake Eyre and its surrounds.

And if it’s not a full tour that you’re after, but just a flight over the Lake whilst you’re staying at William Creek or Marree, then please check our Lake Eyre Flights page .

You’ll find our account of an actual flight over the lake and information about all of the companies who do short, scenic flights.

I really hope you’ve enjoyed reading about Lake Eyre tours as much as I have enjoyed writing it (I am absolutely BLOWN AWAY by Lake Eyre, in case you haven’t guessed!)

If you have enjoyed this page then please leave a comment below, and help me out by sharing this important information using the ‘Share this page’ button below.

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Amanda is an adventurer, archaeologist & anthropologist. She is a runner, insatiable reader & believes a bushwalk is not a real walk unless it’s over 10km.

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It’s very helpful and humble advice/information. Thank you so much.

We have No 30 to Dec 4 2019 and would like to see Lake Eyre & Wilpena pound – what can you offer

Hi Margaret, we ourselves don’t offer tours. You would need to contact one of the companies mentioned on the webpage. Cheers Gary

Thanks for another fantastic post, I appreciate your efforts and I love that you do it.

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Tour Selection

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Your Flinders Ranges & Australian Outback Specialists

Providing personalised scenic Australian outback tour packages since 2000 !

“Outback Discovery Tour”

Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre & Wilpena Pound - 4 Day Tour - (AHT008M)

$3,985 per person (twin share) (for 2024 departures)

• 60 minute scenic flight over lake Eyre from William Creek
• Plus complimentary 2 0 min scenic flight over Wilpena Pound (subject to weather)
• 3 nights accommodation (twin/share), 
• All meals from morning tea on the first day to lunch on last day, 
• Pick up and return to your Adelaide accommodation, 
• all guided 4wd travel 

*Alcohol not included

• Departs Adelaide at 6.30am 
• Port Augusta
• Woomera (Heritage Park)
• Coober Pedy for overnight stay in underground motel
• The Breakaways and Dingo Fence (either at sunset or sunrise depending on the time of year)
• Morning walk around Coober Pedy 
• (including family run opal shop, the Umoona Opal Museum, Big Winch Lookout & Underground Catholic Church) 
• Picnic lunch at Lake Caddibarrawirracanna 
• William Creek via Anna Creek Station, the largest cattle property in the world. 
• 4WD trek to Halligan Bay on the western edge of Lake Eyre North. 
• O/night ensuite cabins at William Creek Hotel.

Day three:  

• 60 min scenic flight over Lake Eyre North 
• Oodnadatta Track
• Beresford Siding - Old Ghan History
• Bubbler and Mound Springs
• Lake Eyre South viewing point
• Farina ghost town
• Lyndhurst Ochre pits
• Parachilna Gorge
• o/night in the Wilpena Pound Resort

Day four:  

• Complimentary 2 0-minute flight around Wilpena Pound
• Ikara Flinders Ranges National Park
• Bunyeroo Gorge Scenic Drive
• Brachina Gorge Geological Trail
• Clare Valley
• Return to Adelaide

“Amazing Outback Experience”

 Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre, Arkaroola & Wilpena - 5 Day Tour - (AHT008ME)

$4,650 per person (twin share) (for 2024 departures)

• 5 hour Ridgetop Tour at Arkaroola
• 4 nights accommodation (twin/share), 
• All guided 4wd travel 
• Gammon Ranges
• Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary o/night 
• Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour - Sillers Lookout (5 hours)
• Stokes Hill Lookout

Day five:  

• Complimentary 20- minute flight around Wilpena Pound

NOTE: Tour content may change without notice due to weather conditions and the availability of accommodation. Unsealed roads in this area are impassible when wet and may be closed after heavy rain. If in the unlikely event we are unable to proceed beyond Coober Pedy, we will return via the main highway. Tour price will be adjusted accordingly. Costs extra to the Itinerary are the responsibility of clients.

Aussie Heritage Tours

Paul and Astrid Keen

Quorn, Flinders Ranges SA

Australian: Telephone: 08 8648 6655

Mobile: 0428 48 66 55

International: 

Phone: +61 8 8648 6655

Mobile: +61 428 48 66 55

Click Here to Phone us 

“Aussie Heritage Tours” 

is a product range of  

“Wallaby Tracks Adventure Tours” 

Flinders Ranges Tours

Outback Tours

Lake Eyre Tours

See Kati-Thanda Lake Eyre! 

Call 0886 707 962 or email [email protected]. Come and see our backyard! 

Current Lake Status

Browse Flights

*Ts & Cs apply

Call us today to discuss scenic flight options from William Creek, Coober Pedy or Wilpena Pound:

(08) 8670 7962.

Connecting the Australian Outback and beyond 

 View our extensive range of aircraft ready to transport passengers or freight anytime, anywhere - Australia wide. 

Our Aircraft

Our aircraft will get you there safely and efficiently

Our three Cessna Grand Caravans are ideally suited to carry 13 passengers in comfort.

We also welcome a new 9 seat configuration Cessna Caravan to our fleet for the ultimate in luxury!

Our twin engine Piper Aerostar is perfect for short and long distance charter. Its cruise speed is higher than any other twin in its category, providing an extremely fast and cost effective mode of transport for both passengers and freight. 

Our Cessna 210s speed and efficiency also make for an extremely cost effective option.

Request a quote

Affiliations

2016, 2017 & 2018 SA Tourism Award Winner

Wrightsair is proud to be the winner of the 2016, 2017 & 2018 Award for "Major Tour and Transport Operator & to have been inducted into the S.A. Tourism 'Hall of Fame'.

Our Top Flights

Experience our most popular flights

Anna Creek Painted Hills

The Anna Creek Painted Hills is a spectacular landmark apart of the pristine Breakaways country, only accessible by a Wrightsair aircraft. 

Flights from $350pp

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

Wildlife on Lake Eyre - A spectacle not to be missed!

Coober Pedy

Discover the Opal Capital of the world from the air!

Flights from $930pp

Wilpena Pound

In the heart of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges, South Australia.

Flights from $225 pp

Kati Thanda - Lake Eyre in flood, Coober Pedy & Flinders Ranges

South australia.

All our tours are fully inclusive.

We have a COVID 19 refund secure policy.

Tour summary

*Ex-tropical Cyclone Kirrily floodwater is moving its way towards Lake Eyre creating a powerful spectacle* Our journey begins in the vibrant city of Adelaide. From there, we'll head north to Port Augusta, a gateway to the stunning landscapes of South Australia. Leaving Port Augusta, we'll travel to the unique underground town of Coober Pedy. This opal-mining town is unlike any other, known for its fascinating underground homes and vibrant opal industry. In the evening, we'll visit the Breakaways, a striking desert landscape, to witness a breathtaking sunset. Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as we embark on a scenic flight from Coober Pedy to William Creek. We take to the skies once again for a mesmerizing scenic flight over Kati Thanda Lake Eyre, with a stop off at Anna Creek Station, where you'll be treated to drinks and canapés. Then we'll journey to Wilpena Pound for a two-night stay. Our adventure concludes as we head back to Adelaide.

Departure location:

Return location:, tour duration:, physical rating:, departure dates:.

31 May 2024 17 July 2024

Coach classes:

Tour accreditations:.

Tour experiences:

20 Meals Included 3 Eco Experiences 4 Cultural & Heritage Experiences

Tour pricing

Additional information.

Deposit of $1000pp required within 14 days of making booking to secure your reservation.

Flights are arranged to suit the tour as a group in advance, therefore we cannot guarantee direct flights or book individual preferences.

N.B. Tour subject to fuel levy price increases for all transport operators. See T&Cs for details.

Tour inclusions

• Return Carbon Neutral economy flights ex Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne to Adelaide
• Fully escorted by an experienced Fun Over 50 Holidays tour host
• 2 nights Adelaide
• Wadlata Outback Centre
• Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens
• 1 night Port Augusta; Woomera
• 1 night Coober Pedy; Breakaways at sunset
• Dingo Barrier Fence
• Umoona Opal Mine tour and fossick
• Incredible 45-minute scenic flight from Coober Pedy over Painted Hills then land at Anna Creek Station for ground tour of Painted Hills with drinks and canapés, then flight to William Creek
• 1 night William Creek
• 1.5 hour scenic flight over Kati Thanda- Lake Eyre, Halligan Bay, Silcrite Island, Belt Bay, Jackboot Bay, Lake Eyre south and Maree Man
• Flight operator flies more guests over Lake Eyre than any other operator
• All aircraft are high wing for optimal viewing experience
• Headsets are provided for all guests for commentary during the scenic flights
• 2 nights Wilpena Pound with 30-minute scenic flight included
• Jeff Morgan Gallery at Hawker
• Adelaide city sights tour
• Locally operated comfort plus coach travel

Physical rating

3 - active/moderate, passengers must be able to:.

• Participate in guided or unguided small walking tours at a relaxed pace
• Walk on mostly level ground
• Tackle an occasional flight of stairs or incline
• Occasionally need to stand for up to 10 minutes
• Get on and off transportation unaided
• Manage your own luggage
• Participate in walking tours with time to rest at least every 10 minutes
• Walk confidently on bush tracks and soft sand – mostly level ground
• Stand for 15 minutes without needing to sit down
• Tackle a flight of stairs or incline
• Get on and off transportation multiple times unaided
• Participate in walking tours without having to stop or sit down to rest for up to 20 minutes
• Walk up an incline equal to a flight of stairs without stopping
• Stand for 30 minutes without needing to sit down
• Walk over uneven ground, tackle cobbled creek crossings & walk through soft sand
• Be extremely mobile and live an active lifestyle
• Negotiate inclines, declines and varied terrain confidently
• Participate in a physical activity lasting up to 5 hours (Trek/walks)
• Manage your own luggage and be able to carry with you a backpack with items required for the physical activities

Flight included

Walking component, indigenous experience, local guide, scenic flight, eco experience, adelaide airport.

Our Carbon Neutral flights arrive into Adelaide where we board the coach and make our way to Mount Lofty Summit lookout for a photo opportunity. From here we head into Adelaide CBD to check-into our city hotel.

AccomModation

Included meals, adelaide - port augusta.

Our adventure today begins by heading north breaking for lunch in Port Broughton before continuing on through Port Pirie arriving at Port Augusta where we visit the Wadlata Outback Centre’s ‘Tunnel of Time’ . Learn about the origins of the outback; hear Aboriginal stories, tales of pioneer explorers and settlers. This afternoon takes us to the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens where we enjoy some free time to explore. We then make our way to our accommodation for an overnight stay.

Port Augusta - Coober Pedy

Departing Port Augusta, we continue on to the Australian Defence Force town of Woomera breaking here for a morning cuppa. Our afternoon trek takes us north via Glendambo to Coober Pedy . Take time to relax before heading out to the Breakaways Reserve and admire the colourful low hills at sunset. We then return to the Desert Cave Hotel to explore its many galleries.

**Limited underground rooms are available, please confirm at time of booking. Above ground rooms are available for those who do not wish to stay underground.

William Creek

This morning we embark on a tour of this quirky underground town with a local guide. Known as the opal capital of the world, supplying 70% of the world’s precious opals, we visit Umoona Opal Mine , do some fossicking and hear the ‘The Story of Opal’ . Departing Coober Pedy , we take to the skies on a spectacular 45-minute scenic flight tracking southeast over some of South Australia’s largest copper and gold mines, Cairn Hill and Peculiar Knob , before turning over the famous Dingo Barrier Fence . We then head through the Anna Creek Painted Hills swathed in a variety of earthy outback colours. The flight will be conducted at a height low enough to experience the intricate details of the beautifully eroded shelf that once belonged to the great inland sea. We then make our first descent and land in an area usually only accessible by air. Admire the spectacular Painted Hills from ground level whilst enjoying drinks & canapés where you can truly appreciate their majesty. We then take off again and pass over Anna Creek Station , the largest cattle station in the world, before landing at William Creek .

**Accommodation in this country region is very limited and basic.

Today brings an experience like no other as we take to the skies to witness the majesty of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre . Departing from William Creek , our 90-minute flight takes us over vast country to Halligan Bay , flying over Silcrete Island and Belt Bay the lowest point in Australia. We then take in Jackboot Bay and Lake Eyre south before tracking over the iconic Marree Man and landing at Marree . Our afternoon travels takes us via the ghost town of Farina and into the Flinders Ranges where towering ancient cliffs and deep craters border dusty red roads.

**Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre flight is truly spectacular both with flood waters or bone dry. Mother nature will determine the view.

Wilpena Pound

Enjoy a free morning to explore Wilpena Pound , a natural amphitheater of mountains and is a true representation of real Australian outback. The best way to see Ikara and the grandeur of the Flinders Ranges is from the air. We take to the skies on a 30-minutescenic flight where you will truly appreciate the vastness of this formation and take in the fantastic view of the River Red Gums , Elder Range , Edeowie Gorge , Lake Torrens , the Heysen Range , Brachina Gorge and St Mary Peak .

**Strict weight restrictions apply on this scenic flight experience at 120kg max.

Wilpena Pound - Adelaide

Taking to the road we break in Hawker at the internationally acclaimed gallery of local artist Jeff Morgan. His ‘Wilpena Panorama’ , a mammoth ‘endless painting’ can be viewed from the ground floor or from an upper landing. Depicting a 360-degree view from the highest point of Wilpena Pound , Jeff has captured the beauty of the Flinders Ranges superbly. Then we continue on to Jamestown , breaking here for lunch before our afternoon travels take us into Adelaide .

Enjoy a city sights tour this morning en-route to Adelaide Airport for our respective Carbon Neutral flights home.

Ready to go?

What you'll see and do.

Our COVID refund secure policy

At Fun Over 50 Holidays, we understand the immense value of your dream holiday and the need for comprehensive protection, especially in the current COVID-19 landscape. That’s why we’ve introduced a COVID Refund Secure Policy, so you can have complete peace of mind when booking your next trip with us.

Fun Over 50 Holidays has been awarded Best of Queensland Experience 2023

Fun Over 50 is proud to announce that we’ve been named as a Best Of Queensland Experience. This means that we come highly recommended by travellers, and provide exemplary tourism experiences through:

• Exceptional service reflected in customer reviews
• Best practice industry standards
• Regional Tourism Organisation accreditations

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Travel in style and comfort

Our Gold Class coach tours let you experience the beauty of the Australian landscape in comfort and style. From the coach itself to the accommodation and meals, every detail is considered.

Business class on wheels

For the next level in luxury, our Diamond Class coach tours give you the business class experience every step of the way. We only book the very best options available

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Frequently asked questions

How do i book this tour.

To book this tour, all you need to do is get in touch with us. We will take your details and reserve your place over the phone. We can also answer any questions you may have and give you all the information you need.

How much luggage can I take?

Our coach tours have a baggage restriction of 17kg per person (regardless of flight and rail allowances) due to our Occupational Health & Safety standards. You can also bring one small, soft carry-on bag not exceeding 30cm wide, 30cm high, and 15cm thick that may be stowed in the overhead compartment.

What do the fitness ratings mean?

Each of our tours has a fitness rating which describes the level of physical activity involved with the tour. These ratings are very important when choosing your tour to ensure it's right for you.  Our fitness ratings are:

• 3 Active/moderate
• 4 Highly active

What is the average size of tour groups?

Our Gold Class coaches have a seat capacity of between 44 and 46, but we cap Gold Class tours at 40 guests per tour. Our Diamond Class tours have a capacity of just 26 guests. Other tour types may have different capacities depending on the transport and destination. Please get in touch with our team if you have any questions about a specific tour.

Can you cater for my dietary requirements?

In most cases, yes we can. We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking, and we can confirm with our suppliers and restaurants.

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Green Travel Leader

We are a Green Travel Leader. This is awarded to businesses which have consistently proven their commitment to sustainable tourism management over ten years.

Sustainable Tourism

As a Sustianable Tourism accredited business, we are proud to offer engaging tourism experiences that follow sound sustainability practices and environmental appreciation.

Quality Tourism

Quality Tourism accredited businesses like Fun Over 50 lead the way by offering the highest industry standards of customer service, satisfaction, reliability, and ethical practices.

Respecting Our Culture

We are committed to operating in ways that respect and reinforce Indigenous cultural heritage and the authenticity and integrity of living cultures of Indigenous communities.

Climate Action Leader

We have incorporated strategic climate change responses across all relevant levels of our planning and operations. We are working towards becoming carbon neutral.

Advanced Ecotourism

With Advanced Ecotourism certification, we offer outstanding experiences which let you get back to nature, help conservation, and minimise environmental impact.

ATAS Travel Accredited

We are a credible, well trained, and professional business. We conduct business in compliance with Australian Consumer Law and in accordance with ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct.

CATO Member

The Council of Australian Tour Operators represents tour operators and wholesalers. As a full CATO member, we provide authentic and original holidays with sustainable travel.

We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them, their cultures, and to the elders both past and present.

We support the LGBTIQ+ community across Australia

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We roll out the red carpet so you can just sit back and relax and know that everything is included in your holiday experience, no surprises, all inclusive!

• +61 1300 763 188 or 0417 244 600

Corner Country Birdsville Track Lake Eyre Tours

From Broken Hill or Adelaide Corner Country Birdsville Track Lake Eyre Tours to Innamincka, Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Lake Eyre via Strzelecki Track, Arkaroola, Wilpena Pound, Coongie Lake wetlands area (now need to bypass due to road damage), Outback NSW, Moomba, Innamincka, Birdsville, Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Lake Eyre, Flinders Ranges to Adelaide or Broken Hill.

• 4 day Corner Country – from Sydney, Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka
• 4 day Corner Country – from Broken Hill, Tibooburra, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka
• 6 Day Arkaroola Wilpena Flinders Ranges Lake Eyre Tours
• 8 Day Corner Country tours via Birdsville Track, Birdsville, Cooper Creek , Strezlecki Track, Innamincka, Arkaroola & Lake Eyre – Details below… 
• 9 Day Corner Country with Coober Pedy & Oodnadatta, Birdsville Track, Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Strezlecki Track, Innamincka, Arkaroola & Lake Eyre –  see dates below ..

Next Corner Country Birdsville Track Lake Eyre tours dates  …

April 16-24 (9 days), May 18-26 (9 days), May 27 – June 4, September 6-14 (9 days), September 19-27, October 22-30, 2018

mall Group Luxury 4WD Tour Hotel upgrade options or camping

8 Day Corner Country tours, via Birdsville Track, Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Strezlecki Track, Innamincka, Arkaroola & Lake Eyre – details follow…

From Broken Hill or Adelaide to Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Lake Eyre via Strzelecki Track, Arkaroola, Wilpena Pound, Outback NSW, Moomba, Innamincka, Birdsville, Burke & Wills Dig Tree, Lake Eyre, Flinders Ranges to Adelaide or Broken Hill.

April 14-22, May 18-26, May 27 – June 4, September 6-14, September 19-27, October 22-30 2018

  8 days or 9 days with Coober Pedy added

  Small Group Luxury 4WD Tour Hotel upgrade options or camping

Day 1  – From Adelaide pickup (or Broken Hill option) approximately 8 am from airport or your accommodation for departure via spectacular mountain scenery as we travel via  Clare Valley wine country , then the  Flinders Ranges to Wilpena Pound . Our journey takes us through rural SA to enjoy picturesque roadside stops for lunch and a morning and afternoon teas. Visit historic  Quorn & Hawker  before arrival at Wilpena Pound resort for our comfy overnight stop. Enjoy a  sunset walk  with the kangaroos amongst the ancient  Red River Gums  and a relax at the bar before dinner. L, D

Day 2 – This morning we recommend the spectacular optional scenic flight over the pound. There’s time also to enjoy the Wangarra Lookout & Hills Homestead walk into the Pound. We leave Wilpena and pass by traditional sheep stations and the impressive Lake Frome , into the Gammon Ranges National Park to Arkaroola. Overnight Arkaroola Resort. B,L,D

Day 3 – There’s plenty to do here in this remote,  rugged area, including scenic flights or relaxing walks in the paths by nearby creeks, but the highlight is the Ridge Top Tour .  The 4.5 hour Ridge Top Tour showcases the magic of the Northern Flinders Ranges timeless terrain and unique natural beauty of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Witness some of the most spectacularly rugged country on earth as you travel through Arkaroola’s 1600-million year geological history, as the inspiring images of red granite mountains and golden spinifex hillsides give way to a breath-taking view across the Freeling Heights, Lake Frome and the desert beyond. After a spectacular day, relax by the fireside and share your experiences. Overnight Arkaroola BLD

Day 4 – Today we pass by desert sand dunes, gibber plains and hot springs as we heading north to Innamincka. We pass by Lake Callabonna , where Diprotodon and numerous Australian megafauna roamed in swampy terrain when this was the eastern most shore of Australia. There are many remains of ancient beasties here, and the country makes it easy to imagine this other world of many millions of years ago. At Mt Hopeless (aptly named) we join the Strzelecki Track , we pass Merty Merty homestead and on via the vast oil and gas fields of Moomba and the Delta gas fields to enter the Innamincka Regional Reserve area, and famous Innamincka township on the banks of the notorious Cooper Creek.  A Cooper Creek cruise is in order before dinner at the Innamincka pub.

Day 5 – Today we visit the Burke & Wills dig tree , were the ill fated explorers arrived too late for their support party, and did not respond to the message on the tree to dig, where supplies were buried that could have saved their lives. We do though enjoy the prolific birdlife near here and unique flora before heading up the track, passing the largest shearing shed in Australia and the ruins of Cadelga Downs station, (alternatively via Haddon Corner, depending on road conditions) over the Queensland border to arrive Birdsville for overnight. BLD

Day 6 – Birdsville is an icon of the outback, attracting outback travellers to connect with the frontier history of this landmark town. Birdsville used to be the customs post for goods and cattle travelling to and from South Australia before Federation. It was the route used by the great cattle drovers, including S. Kidman & Co, and there’s plenty of this history to experience in Birdsville, especially at the local museum, adjacent the tasty treats of the Hard Road Cafe . Today we visit Big Red, the  Simpson Desert ’s biggest sand hill, and see Burke & Wills marked tree on the  Diamantina River . An optional flight over the Simpson Desert and Goyder Lagoon is available here. We head off south on the Birdsville Track following the spectacular Diamantina River past Pandie Pandie station and Goyder Lagoon.  Time and track conditions willing, we visit Kalamurina Wildlife Sanctuary &  Station , part of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy for overnight, or alternatively overnight at Mungeranie Roadhouse on the Birdsville Track. BLD

Day 7 – Arriving in Marree , explore this once thriving railway town that helped save Darwin during WWII with 56 trains per week ! Marree is at the junction of the Birdsville and Oodnatta Tracks, and the path of the Great Northern  Railway / Old Ghan for over 100 years, so lots of history here including Aboriginal museum and history, Tom Kruse (Outback Mailman from “Back of Beyond”) and Donald Campbells Bluebird story. Take an optional take a 1 hr 30 min scenic flight over Lake Eyre to see the Warburton Groove, the main inflow channel to Lake Eyre, Elliot Price Conservation Park , Halligan Bay , Lake Eyre South and the Marree Man (a 4 km long, giant engraving in the landscape). On return to base, we see some of the sights of Marree, this once thriving Ghan Railway town . Marree is caretaker for some interesting railway relics, plus  the old mail truck used by legendary outback mailman Tom Kruse on the run from Marree to Birdsville. We visit the shores of Lake Eyre and Lake Eyre National Park and connect with the wonder of the bird and plant life revitalised by recent flooding rains in a permanent waterhole. Overnight in Marree with a few yarns around the campfire or at the local pub. BLD

Day 8 – Today we visit the restored ruins of the old Ghan railway town of Farina, which once supported 300 people. We view the giant Leigh Creek coal mine, enjoy a break at the Quandong cafe at Copley and travel via old Ghan railway towns to Parachilna, and in the foothills of the Flinders Ranges to Hawker and picturesque mountain landscapes to arrive in Adelaide around 6pm, delivered to your accommodation or airport connection. BL

Corner Country, Birdsville Track & Lake Eyre Tour

8 day Corner Country, Birdsville Track & Lake Eyre Tour from Adelaide (or Broken Hill option) to Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Lake Eyre via Strzelecki Track, Arkaroola, Wilpena Pound, Coongie Lake wetlands, (bypass) Moomba, Innamincka, Birdsville, Burke & Wills Dig Tree,  Flinders Ranges to Adelaide or Broken Hill.  Price includes all meals, NP park entry fees, professional guide, Optional Lake Eyre flight available, luxury small group 4WD  transport. Price of $3,995 is for comfy camping OR for 7 nights accommodation (with hotel meals) upgrade add $895 per person. Ie $4,890 is for 8 days/7 nights accommodated

9 day Corner Country, Birdsville Track & Lake Eyre Tour with Coober Pedy & Wilpena Pound from Adelaide to Birdsville, Cooper Creek, Lake Eyre via Strzelecki Track, Arkaroola, Wilpena Pound, Moomba, Innamincka, Burke & Wills Dig Tree,  Flinders Ranges to Adelaide.  Price includes all meals, NP park entry fees, professional guide, Optional Lake Eyre flight available, luxury small group 4WD  transport.  as above (1 night William Ck in leiu of Marree) Price is $5485 per person. Rooms are in local hotel or ensuite cabins. Single room supplement on 9 day accommodated tour is $995

Discount available for groups of 4 or more

Tour Dates –

From Adelaide or Broken Hill options return to Adelaide or BH – please ask

Call  1300 763 188 or 0417 244 600 or email with any questions to [email protected]

Other Corner Country Tours options – please ask

• Lake Eyre Tours & Flights – Its flooded again – see it in its beauty BOOK NOW
• Darling River Run Tour via Bourke to Broken Hill – from Sydney -4 days – Explore Outback NSW Rivers and Wetlands – Departs Sydney to Nyngan, Bourke, Gundabooka National Park, Darling River, Louth, Tilpa, White Cliffs, Broken Hill.
• Mungo National Park Tours from Sydney to Broken Hill – Meets some Cameron Corner Country tours

Discover Outback NSW and this ancient landscape, travel the Darling River Run and explore Burke & Wills camp and wetlands at Menindee Lakes on this Mungo National Park Tours from Sydney to Broken Hill (or reverse option)

Day 1 – Depart from Sydney – travelling via the famous “Dog on the Tucker Box” over the Great Dividing Range to Wagga Wagga, and on to Narranderra in the Heart of Australia food bowl, the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, then Hay to see the Shearers Hall of fame at Shear Outback and learn of the rich life in the wool industry in early NSW. Overnight Balranald for a hearty local meal and overnight stop.

Cameron Corner Country 4WD Tour -NSW / QLD  / SA Corner -4 Day Corner Country from Broken Hill return to Broken Hill via Tibooburra, Milparinka, Moomba, Innaminka, Dig Tree, Cameron Corner – Explore in the footsteps of Burke & Wills (visit the Dig Tree) this remote and fascinating area around the junction of the NSW, QLD & SA borders. 4 days from Broken Hill (or Sydney Adelaide or Melbourne by rail, fly or coach options available) – ask for details

Call  1300 763 188 or email with any questions to [email protected]

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• 4WD Eco Tours
• Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges ...
• Flinders Ranges & Outback – ...

Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges Tour – 4 Day Small Group 4WD Eco Tour

Lake Eyre & Flinders Ranges – 4 Day Small Group 4WD Eco Safari

Includes 6 hour lake eyre & flinders ranges scenic flight..

Departs Adelaide 3rd Monday of each month (or on demand).

✔ Wilderness, Wildlife, Culture ✔ Professional, accredited tour guide/driver ✔ Comfortable air-conditioned 4WD vehicle ✔ Quorn, Warren Gorge ✔ Flinders Ranges National Park

✔ Lunch at remote William Creek pub ✔ Wilpena Pound (Ikara) ✔ Brachina & Bunyeroo Gorges ✔ Ediacaran fossils ✔ Clare Valley wine tasting

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

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Please message for other possible dates.

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This is an exciting 4-day small group 4WD tour from Adelaide to Lake Eyre and the famous South Australian Flinders Ranges. It includes a six hour scenic flight over Lake Eyre and the Ranges.

Lake Eyre, located 700km north of Adelaide, is the largest salt lake in the Southern Hemisphere — so large that it crosses the borders of three states. It is the lowest natural point in Australia (15m below sea level), and is also, on the rare occasions that it fills, the largest lake in Australia.

See the lake as most people never do on our Lake Eyre tour — come with us on a small group safari and get a close-up look at this marvel of nature. This is the best Lake Eyre experience from Adelaide!

The views of Lake Eyre are equally spectacular when in flood with surrounding wildflowers and birds or in drought with it’s brilliant white crust and desert wildlife.

It can give you a real sense of isolation standing on the dry lake edge with nothing as far as the eye can see, but when the rains come, the lake comes to life with thousands of birds. Away from the lake, the National Park features red sand dunes and mesas, stone-strewn tablelands and salty claypans.

Get a real sense of the outback spirit — make this awe-inspiring journey in the comfort of a modern 4WD vehicle. Follow in the footsteps of famous explorer John McDouall Stuart and the old Ghan Railway. See the sights of the Oodnadatta Track. There’s nothing like heading bush and experiencing some of the harshest country in Australia.

Complete with this Lake Eyre scenic flight, you will have a once in a lifetime experience.

Commence your wilderness journey heading north via the old coastal towns of Port Wakefield and Port Germein, which boasts the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. During the safari your Tour Guide will introduce you to a remarkable and resilient history of both Aboriginal and white settlement in S.A.

Be amazed by the beauty of the Southern Flinders Ranges, 600 million year old mountain peaks and spectacular views over Spencer Gulf. Travel through picturesque Pichi Richi Pass to the historic township of Quorn. With its typical outback buildings and the original Ghan Railway station, Quorn has been the setting for many iconic Australian films.

Follow in the path of our early explorers driving to Warrens Gorge Conservation Park to search for rare Yellow-Footed Rock Wallabies. Dramatic rock outcrops harbour these endangered wallabies with only an estimated 8,000 living in the wild. Sit back in our comfortable, fully equipped 4WD vehicle as we head along remote tracks through the deserted Willochra Plains where eagles soar and emus run free.

Overnight Accommodation: Wilpena Pound, Rawnsley Park Resort or Quorn Motel (depending on availability)

Meals: (L) Included: Picnic Lunch (D) Own Expense: Restaurant

In the morning take off from the local airstrip for your special Lake Eyre scenic flight with excellent views of the Flinders Ranges. You begin your scenic flight over Wilpena Pound, Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorge before tracking north to Lake Eyre. You will fly over Parachilna, the Leigh Creek open-cut coal fields and the Marree Man, following the outback tracks crossing the awe-inspiring Lake Eyre.

After marvelling at the wonders of this mammoth inland salt lake we will land at the outback town of William Creek. Enjoy lunch at a remote pub where the local stockmen gather. Make the return trip back to Wilpena Pound over the Painted Hills, Andamooka opal fields and Lake Torrens.

(Flight path may change to take advantage of better scenic options).

Meals: (B) Included: Continental (L) Included: William Creek Pub (D) Own Expense: Restaurant

This morning after a hearty breakfast, our expert guide will drive you on a wonderful journey to the spectacular Bunyeroo Gorge, visiting secluded areas of great natural beauty. Explore the ever changing creek beds of Brachina Gorge. This is an area alive with wildlife and boasts a remarkable geological history including Ediacaran fossils dating back millions of years. World-renowned South Australian painter, Sir Hans Heysen was inspired by this country and painted many of his landscapes here.

After a scrumptious picnic lunch, immerse yourself in the ancient landscape; take that special photograph from Razor Back Lookout or just enjoy some of the most spectacular outback scenery Australia has to offer.

As the sun becomes low in the sky we will follow the road through a landscape of absolute beauty. Wildlife including Kangaroos, Emus and Wedge-tailed Eagles are prolific in this rugged terrain and are usually spotted in the late afternoon.

Meals: (B) Included: Continental (L) Included: Picnic Lunch (D) Own Expense: Restaurant

Enjoy an early morning walk, breathe in the fresh air while listening to the unique sounds of the Australian Bush. Spend a lovely morning travelling back to Adelaide along the Eastern side of the magnificent Flinders Ranges.

Heading south down the RM Williams way the land changes into lush rural expanses of natural beauty. Enjoy a break in the world-famous Clare Valley wine region.

No doubt you will leave with life-long memories to share with family and friends about your journey to the Flinders Ranges & Outback.

Meals: (B) Included: Continental (L) Included: Café/Bakery

Please note:

• (B) (L) and (D) indicates which meals are included and which meals are at the passengers own expense.
• Advertised itineraries & vehicles may change due to circumstances beyond our control.
• Optional extras rates are valid until 31 March 2025.
• Optional extras can be booked direct through us. This helps coordinate the flights for the best possible times. Book early to avoid disappointment!
• All flights need a minimum of 2 passengers.

Pricing All prices are Per Person

This tour is also available without the six-hour scenic desert flight:

What to Bring

• One small day pack (a smaller bag to be carried in the vehicle)
• One duffel bag or small suitcase for clothing (no bigger than an in-flight cabin bag, to be stored in the trailer)
• Any special medication you require
• Warm clothing, including long sleeve tops & pants
• Shorts & t-shirts
• Fly nets are advisable
• Insect repellent, hat, sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimming gear
• A 1-litre water bottle per person (we carry bulk water on board that you can refill from)
• Aboriginal Rock Art site
• Brachina & Bunyeroo Gorges
• Bush walking
• Clare Valley wine tasting
• Flinders Ranges National Park
• Lake Eyre 4 hour scenic flight
• Lake Eyre Tours
• Lunch at William Creek pub
• Wilpena Pound

Contact SA ECO Tours

Phone: 0417 830 533

Email: [email protected]

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Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park

Australia’s largest Salt lake – 144km long & 77km wide and at 15.2 metres below sea level, it is the lowest point in Australia.

This 1,228,000 hectare remote and arid Park includes all of Lake Eyre North and the Tirari Desert, conserving the desert wilderness. Lake Eyre is a dry salt lake that occasionally floods and it was here that the late Sir Donald Campbell once set the world land speed record of 645km/h in a jet-powered car. Access is 7km east of William Creek then 53km east to Halligan Bay or 3km west from Marree and then 90km north. Roads are 4WD only and careful planning and preparation is required. A Desert Parks Pass is required.

Proposed Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre management plan to ban recreational access without cultural permission

A new management plan proposed for outback Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre by the SA government suggests banning members of the public from walking, driving or boating on the lake bed without permission from the traditional owners.

The public would be allowed to view the inland lake from the air or from two designated visitor areas — Halligan Bay Point Campground and the southern information bay off the Oodnadatta Track. 

Arabana Aboriginal Corporation chairperson Bronwyn Dodd said Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre was connected to one of their most important Ularaka (stories) and a place where their ancestors rest.  

"From a cultural aspect, that's really disrespectful to enter such a significant cultural site," she said. 

"For us, our ancestors are there, our stories are there, and it's a very powerful place for Arabana. 

"We want people to come and enjoy Kati Thanda by all means. We just want to be able to do that through education and respectful engagement." 

Pushback from boaters

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is the second largest national park in Australia, covering more than 1.3 million hectares.

The inland lake is a significant tourist drawcard for the outback region, with the usually dry lake-bed experiencing flooding every three to 10 years.

Lake Eyre Yacht Club commodore Bob Backway said he was in disbelief at the proposed plan. 

Mr Backway was against controlling recreational activity on the lake, saying it was "effectively privatising the national park". 

"We respect physical evidence of Arabana culture and we have strict rules in our club that we only look, examine, study and photograph, but put back any relics that we find out there," he said. 

The Department for Environment and Water confirmed there would be exemptions available. 

"There's absolutely provision for access for commercial filming or photography, or commercial tour permits to go out onto the lake and that will be considered on a case by case basis to ensure that what's being proposed is culturally appropriate," National Parks and Wildlife Service program director Jason Irving said.

If the management plan is adopted, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre would not be the first natural tourism attraction to limit access to tourists. 

In 2019, the Uluru climb was closed by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park board after consultation with the Anangu community.  

Misuse hurts traditional owners 

Ms Dodd said activities such as driving or boating on the lake could not only damage the lake bed, but was also hurtful for Arabana. 

"My elders have often told me that when they see behaviour such as that, that they deeply hurt inside and it hurts them to see our country hurt like that, when it's being disrespected in such a way," she said. 

"They have tried to engage over the years and to help protect and preserve that, but it's certainly a deep hurt when we see people disrespecting such a culturally significant site to us." 

Ms Dodd said they also had concerns for the safety of tourists navigating the lake, which was in a remote area. 

Members of the public can provide feedback on the management plan online until July 19. 

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